Original scientific paper
From Ignoring to Leading Changes – What Role do Universities Play in Developing Countries? (Case of Croatia)
Slavica Singer
Sunčica Oberman Peterka
Abstract
Using the model of entrepreneurial university, the paper presents major blockages (university’s own institutional
rigidity, fragmented organization, lack of mutual trust between the business sector and universities,
no real benchmarks, legal framework not supportive of opening the university to new initiatives) in Triple
Helix interactions in Croatia. Comparing identified blockages with expectations (multidimensional campus,
cooperation with the business sector and other stakeholders in designing new educational and research
programs) expressed by HEIs in developed countries around the world (2008 EIU survey) indicates new
challenges for universities in developing countries. With Triple Helix approach, not confined within national
borders, but as an international networking opportunity, these challenges can be seen as opportunities,
otherwise they are threats. On the scale of ignoring, observing, participating and leading positive changes in
its surroundings, for the purpose of measuring vitality of Triple Helix interactions, Croatian universities are
located more between ignoring and observing position. To move them towards a leading position, coordinated
and consistent policies are needed in order to focus on eliminating identified blockages. Universities
should take the lead in this process; otherwise they are losing credibility as desired partners in developing
space for Triple Helix interactions.
Keywords
entrepreneurial university; regional development; university accountability; Triple Helix
Hrčak ID:
63244
URI
Publication date:
10.12.2010.
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